By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE — The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has called on the Punjab government to immediately suspend ongoing enforcement and sealing operations against industrial and commercial units, warning that thousands of jobs and substantial investments could be at stake if the current approach continues.
Speaking on behalf of the chamber, LCCI Senior Vice President Tanveer A. Sheikh urged the provincial authorities to adopt a balanced and consultative policy framework, saying businesses should be provided with practical alternatives and sufficient time before any relocation measures are enforced.
The appeal comes amid growing concerns within the business community over notices reportedly issued by the Lahore Development Authority (LDA), directing a large number of industrial and commercial establishments to relocate from their existing premises within 30 days.
According to the chamber, failure to comply with the notices could result in the disconnection of electricity, gas and water supplies, sealing of premises and the registration of criminal cases.
Tanveer A. Sheikh said the issue had created deep anxiety among industrialists, investors and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), many of which have been operating in their current locations for years and have contributed significantly to economic activity and employment.
“The business community fully supports the enforcement of laws and urban planning regulations, but implementation should be undertaken with fairness, transparency and proper consultation with stakeholders,” he said.
He stressed that industries and commercial enterprises are not violators by default but are taxpayers, investors and employers whose operations sustain millions of livelihoods across Punjab.
According to the LCCI, many affected businesses were established in these areas because affordable and viable industrial alternatives were not made available in the past. Abrupt enforcement measures, the chamber warned, could trigger widespread disruption across supply chains and undermine investor confidence.
Tanveer A. Sheikh noted that the closure or forced relocation of industrial units without a comprehensive policy could result in the loss of thousands of jobs, particularly among workers employed in small and medium-sized enterprises, which form the backbone of the provincial economy.
The chamber has urged the Punjab government to formulate a comprehensive regularisation policy in consultation with industrial associations, trade bodies and other stakeholders.
Among its recommendations, the LCCI called for the immediate suspension of sealing operations, the provision of suitable and affordable alternative industrial locations, and the introduction of a reasonable grace period to allow businesses time to regularise their status or relocate in an orderly manner.
Tanveer A. Sheikh said that economic growth and urban development should go hand in hand, adding that policies aimed at improving city planning must not come at the expense of employment, investment and industrial activity.
He emphasised that a pragmatic and realistic approach would enable the government to achieve regulatory objectives while safeguarding the interests of businesses and workers.
“The prosperity of Punjab is directly linked to the strength of its industrial sector. If industry suffers, employment opportunities will decline, and the province’s economic progress will inevitably be affected,” he said.
The chamber reiterated that it remains committed to working with the Punjab government and relevant authorities to find mutually acceptable solutions that protect economic activity while ensuring compliance with planning laws.
Business leaders have increasingly called for dialogue between policymakers and industry representatives, arguing that consultation and consensus are essential to maintaining investor confidence and sustaining Punjab’s role as the country’s largest industrial and commercial hub.
